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Select Board sends funeral-home zoning amendment to Nov. 5 ballot
Summary
The board voted 4–0 to move a zoning ordinance amendment that adds a definition for "funeral home" and allows it (with a parking requirement) in three zones to the Nov. 5 ballot after a public hearing; a resident warned that allowing funeral homes in Residential A could change neighborhood character.
The Wells Select Board opened a public hearing on Sept. 3 to consider a planning-board-recommended zoning amendment that defines "funeral home" as a land-use category and adds a parking requirement for that use. Town planner/staff (Mike) said the proposal had been reviewed by the planning board, which recommended allowing the use in Residential A, Residential-Commercial and General Business districts to enable an existing funeral home to expand.
Public commenters asked procedural and policy questions. Howard Hall asked when the joint review of multiple ordinance changes would occur; staff confirmed a prior joint public hearing and that final language had been determined following that hearing. Sue Butler objected to allowing funeral homes in Residential A districts, saying it could change neighborhood character and that the board should consider a variance or waiver process rather than broad zoning changes.
With no substantial amendments proposed, a board member moved to close the hearing and forward the ordinance to the Nov. 5 ballot by secret ballot; the board approved the motion 4'0to'00. The certified language will be part of the special town-meeting warrant for voters to decide.
